Frequently Asked Questions about Copyright and Computer Software: Issues Affecting the U.S. Government with Special Emphasis on Open Source Software

Frequently Asked Questions about Copyright and Computer Software: Issues Affecting the U.S. Government with Special Emphasis on Open Source Software

CENDI Copyright Working Group

8/01/2020
(Original Publish Date: 11/1/2009)

This document provides general guidance on a special category of copyrighted works computer software and includes a detailed discussion of open source software. Federal agencies are increasingly supporting the use and acquisition of open source software as an alternative to proprietary software in their information technology programs. It is hoped that this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document will serve as a useful resource for contracting officers, program managers, librarians, information center staff, and attorneys.